Last week it was Pinocchio, today it’s Popeye. He came to mind when I was cooking up some spinach, of course. When I was young, I didn’t care much for this gnarly sailor. Snagglepuss was more my type. But as I got older, I had a new appreciation for Popeye’s wit and wisdom.

Well before the proliferation of today’s self-affirmation gurus, Popeye pointed us toward self-acceptance: I yam what I yam and that’s all that I yam! Try repeating that to yourself in the mirror as your morning affirmation!

For those who are uncomfortable with the jargon, a simple translation will work: I am what I am and that’s all I need to be!

But my favorite expression, as a wife, a mother of six, and woman who often finds it hard to say no, is Popeye’s admission of his breaking point: That’s all I can stands, I can’t stands no more!

Translation, in today’s terms: NO! I’m done! Fini! Change the channel! Hand over the belt because today I’m number one!

However it’s stated, it’s all about self-care, acknowledging your limits and your needs. And finally, after what seems a life-time, I’m getting the hang of it. But Popeye knew it wasn’t enough to just acknowledge your limits. He had a formula for overcoming them.

Now, if I could only master the spinach thing, aka, giving my body, mind and soul what it needs when it needs it. Today, it’s physical and mental rest, a peaceful place, time for prayer, and laughter. Tomorrow, it may be something else.

So, what’s your spinach?

SDG